Golden era of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry will dawn under SJB govt – Sajith

By Saman Indrajith

The golden era of Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry would dawn under a Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) administration, SJB presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa, said yesterday, addressing a group of industry stakeholders.

Premadasa criticised successive administrations for merely discussing policies for the gem and jewellery industry without taking effective action.

“In recent years, we have witnessed several international players entering the industry, undermining local businesses. These companies are attempting to make a quick profit, often with political support. An SJB administration will not tolerate such practices,” he asserted.

Premadasa emphasised the importance of the Sri Lankan gem and jewellery industry embracing the latest technologies and adhering to international standards. He pledged that an SJB administration would empower Sri Lankan businesses to compete with international companies.

“We will provide the industry with all the necessary support. We also encourage you to develop a comprehensive plan for the industry’s growth. We want you to show us how we can elevate Sri Lanka to the status of Thailand or Hong Kong, the two dominant players in the global gem and jewellery trade,” Premadasa said.